Ellijay Area Activities and Attractions

Winerys & Tours

A Grape Views Wine Tour

Our partners at A Grape View Tours offers tours of local wineries and scenic tours of the area as well if wine isn’t your thing. There are so many wineries in the Ellijay / Blue Ridge area including Bear Claw Vineyards, Buckley Vineyards, Fainting Goat Vineyards and Winery, Canoe Vineyard and Winery, Cartecay Vineyards, Chateau Miechtry, Engelheim Vineyards,Grapes and Ladders, Ott Vineyards and Winery, and Roo Mountain Vineyards. 

(706) 972-1187

https://agrapeview.com 

North Georgia Wine Trips

We are here for YOU! With North GA Wine Trips you can expect the BEST service from the BEST drivers! We don’t just sit in the van and wait for you to get done, we make sure you have great seating, and are served your tastings in a timely manner at each stop. We wait on you like the VIP guest that you are and make sure you are fully accommodated EVERY STEP OF THE TRIP! We are excited to offer more options for your trip! Mix and match your stops from the area wineries, breweries, hard cider house, and a distillery!

706-889-2068

https://northgawinetrips.com/trip/

Roo Mountain Vineyards

Nestled just four miles from historic Downtown Ellijay with breathtaking, pristine views of the Blue Ridge foothills, Roo Mountain Vineyards is your destination for comfortable luxury. Taste and savor a curated selection of wines and hard ciders, fresh from the vineyard and made by our own team of experienced winemakers as you explore our winery, tasting room, rooftop garden bar and more. Once you’ve found the glass you love, there’s nothing left to do but sit back, take in the mountain views and enjoy.

706-502-3935

https://roomountainvineyards.com/

1493 Old Flat Branch Road, Ellijay, GA  30540

Chateau Meichtry

Chateau Meichtry is a family-owned and operated winery and vineyard, located in North Georgia wine country in Ellijay, Ga. The vineyard lies in the beautiful foothills of the Appalachian Mountains and the rolling hills provide a perfect location for growing quality wine grapes. You are invited to come out for a tasting or a glass while enjoying the beautiful scenery, and on weekends, enjoy live music entertainment from a great array of Georgia musicians every Saturday & Sunday from 1:30-5:30.

706-502-1608

https://www.chateaumeichtry.co/

1862 Orchard Ln., Talking Rock, GA 30175

Ellijay Excursions

Ellijay Excursions is a veteran-owned transportation company in Ellijay, Georgia. We live and work in the heart of Gilmer County wine country, tucked between four vineyards in the beautiful mountains of Ellijay, Georgia.

Sit back and enjoy the scenery while you sample local wines, apple cider, local brews, our famous apple cider donuts, farm fresh ice cream and more! Our driver, Benjamin Grimmer, is a certified personal security professional with 12 years in the wine industry. 

706-972-7401

www.ellijayexcursions.com

Reece’s Cider Co.

Our names are Taner & Sarah Reece. We are the owners here at Reece's Cider Company. This business has been a dream for most of Taners life, and it is so rewarding to see it come to fruition. It is our hope that you can join us here for fun times, delicious hard apple cider, & memories that will leave you coming back time and time again. We truly believe that this will be such a welcomed addition to the wineries in Ellijay, GA. Our customers will be able to try a flight of hard cider, and follow up with a growler to go. Cheers!

706-635-2775

https://reecescidercompany.com/

9110 GA-52 East, Ellijay, GA 30536

Ott Vineyards and Winery

Ott Vineyards and  Winery is located on 20+ acres with one of North Georgia’s most beautiful mountain views at 180 degrees. They currently have 8+ acres of French-American hybrids and Vinifera grapes including: Seyval Blac, Traminette, Vidal Blanc, Chambourcin, Lenoire and Cabernet Franc.  Ott is family owned and operated. 

They are open 7 days a week with live music on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays , as well as special holidays.  Tuesday night is their famous open mic night from 5pm to 8pm. Guests are welcome to bring their own picnic.

706-273-1891

https://www.ottvineyards.com/

230 Henry Evans Rd, Ellijay, GA 30536

Buckley Vineyards

Buckley Vineyards came to be after acquiring the old Henry Evans homestead property, with its’ beautiful Turkey Creek setting and mountain views.  We knew this place was something special and needed to be shared.  Kevin’s love of gardening led to planting a vineyard and from there everything unfolded.  With the encouragement of friends and family, we are now ready to share our fabulous wines in this gorgeous place.  

706-972-2080

https://www.buckleyvineyards.com/

708 Henry Evans Rd. Ellijay, GA 30536


Hiking

Amicalola State Park

A magnificent 729 foot waterfall that’s the third-highest cascading waterfall east of the Mississippi River.   It’s only 8 miles from the Appalachian Trail and within the Chattahoochee National Forest.   Amicalola Falls is just a 35 minute drive from downtown Ellijay. Offers extensive hiking trails, zip lining, axe throwing, and a breathtaking waterfall view. 

706-344-1500

https://www.amicalolafallslodge.com/

418 Amicalola Falls Lodge Rd., Dawsonville, Georgia, 30534

Fall Branch Falls

Hike less than a mile round-trip to see some of the best-known waterfalls near Ellijay. If that’s not quite enough cascade action for you, set aside a whole day to embark on other waterfall hikes.

https://www.atlantatrails.com/hiking-trails/fall-branch-falls-benton-mackaye-trail/

Cohutta Overlook

Less than 20 minutes from Ellijay, this short but steep trail affords gorgeous views throughout the year. We recommend stopping by during the fall when the changing leaves put on a vibrant show.

GA-52, Ellijay, GA 30540

https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/conf/recarea/?recid=10485

Appalachian Approach Trail

Hikers seeking a challenge can tackle this iconic 16-mile route that starts at stunning Amicalola Falls State Park and ends atop the peak of Springer Mountain, the southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail.

https://www.atlantatrails.com/hiking-trails/at-approach-trail-hiking-amicalola-falls-to-springer-mountain/


Orchards

B.J. Reece Orchards

During our Apple Picking Season (September – October) they offer a variety of farm activities in addition to picking your own apples to create a truly unique fun farm experience.

Monday – Friday: petting farm, giant farm slide, corn box & rubber duck races are available.  Saturday – Sunday: the petting farm, giant farm slide, corn box, rubber duck races, wagon rides, pig races, jumping pillow, cow train ride, scavenger hunt through the corn maze, cow milking, pony rides and apple cannons are available!

706-276-3048

https://www.reeceorchards.com/

9131 Highway 52 East- Elljay, GA  30536

Panorama Orchards & Farm Market

Panorama Orchards and Farm Market is a family fruit farm established in the 1920’s to produce and market apples.  Today they have available more than 20 varieties of apples, as well as peaches and fall vegetables.  Be sure to check out their fresh baked goods from their own kitchens!

706-276-3813

https://panoramaorchards.com/

63 Talona Mountain Rd, Ellijay, GA 30536

R&A Orchards

R & A Orchards had its beginning in 1947 when Leonard & Della Payne planted their first apple trees in Gilmer County. Roger and Ann Futch joined the operation in 1969. In 1972, R & A Orchard opened its Roadside Market.

R & A Orchards has approximately 160 acres of fruits and vegetables.

706-273-3821

https://randorchards.com/

5505 GA-52, Ellijay, GA 30536

Mercier Orchards

Nestled in the picturesque town of Blue Ridge, Georgia, their 4th generation family farm, Mercier Orchards is a hometown success story.   Proud to have their roots in the Blue Ridge community and preserve both history and values for future generations to come. 

So many things to do for everyone of all ages. From U-pick, fishing, tractor tours, to blossom tours. Grab a bite to eat in their Market and Bakery or enjoy a cold beverage in their Winery and Hard Cidery. 

706-632-3411

https://mercier-orchards.com/

8600 Blue Ridge Dr., Blue Ridge, GA  30513

Burt’s Pumpkin Farm

A sea of orange with small pumpkins to giant pumpkins, hayrides,  country store with fresh baked pies, candied popcorn, fall décor and more ! Fun for the entire family!

706-265-3701

https://www.burtspumpkinfarmgeorgia.com/

5 Burts Pumpkin Farm Rd., Dawsonville, GA


Off-Property Adventures

Cartecay River Experience

Cartecay River Experience offers Friendly and Helpful Staff that help to create a fun family atmosphere. We provide safe and proper equipment and all safety gear is included with our rentals. We have on hand life jackets to fit everyone including children.

706-531-4746

Cartecayriverexperience.com

2400 GA-52 East, Ellijay, GA 30536

Rolling Thunder Company

Rolling Thunder River Company has been entertaining families and thrill seekers for 40+ years on the Nantahala, Ocoee and Toccoa rivers.

(800) 408-7238

https://www.rollingthunderriverco.com/

20 Hughes St, McCaysville, GA 30555

Appalachian Trail Rides

Looking to explore the mountains on horseback? Give our partners at Appalachian Trail Rides a call. Appalachian Trail Rides are located just minutes from Blue Ridge, GA and you will be guided on horseback through the mountains crossing creeks, and beautiful lake views alongside the trails. You will be guided by a family friendly guide that will ensure your experience is fun, safe, and enjoyable. Also, you can reserve a chuck wagon dinner where you and your group will enjoy a trail ride and stop at a beautiful spot to enjoy a catered dinner chuck wagon style.

(706) 374-0362

https://appalachiantrailrides.com/

4100 Cutcane Road, Mineral Bluff, GA  30559

Carters Lake & Marina

This lake offers 3,200 acres of deep, clear water surrounded by 65 miles of undeveloped shoreline to enjoy. Rent a pontoon or tritoon boat and stay out with your group on the lake all day long. The marina has a ship store to allow you to stock up on snacks and drinks for a day on the lake, and the rental includes life jackets for safety out on the water. 

706-276-4891

https://www.carterslake.com/

575 Marina Rd., Chatsworth, GA 30705

Sasquatch Museum

According to local legend adventurers on similar outdoor excursions have encountered one of the region’s most elusive creatures and while you might not spot Bigfoot yourself during your trip the nearby Sasquatch Museum provides plenty of evidence that he’s out there lurking somewhere!

Located 10 miles north of Ellijay, Expedition Bigfoot! is a quirky museum designed to make you question everything you thought you knew about this urban legend.

www.expeditionbigfoot.com

934 Hwy 515, Blue Ridge, GA  30513

Blue Ridge Mountain Kayaking

Located just two miles from downtown Blue Ridge, at the base of Lake Blue Ridge Dam, enter the crystal clear waters of the Lower Toccoa River. Embark on a 2 hour journey (dam being released) or a 3 hour journey (dam not being released.) of an unforgettable kayak trip for all ages and experience levels. 

706-633-7066

www.blueridgemountainkayaking.net

56 North River Rd., Mineral Bluff, GA  30559

Blue Mountain & Cartecay Bike Shops

If you and your group are looking to explore the north Georgia mountains on a mountain bike look no further than our 2 partners in the area. The professionals at Blue Mountain Bikes and Cartecay Bike shop can take you on trails in the area regardless of skill level. They also have rental bikes for your group as well and can deliver bikes to the lodge for your enjoyment while on the property. There are numerous trails in the area including the Aska Trail System, Fightingtown Creek Nature Park, Talking Rock Nature Preserve, Jack Rabbit Bike Trail, and others. 

When booking your reservation, please let the Lodge Manager know if you have interest in mountain biking in order to get you in touch with our partners for your needs on your specific dates. These guys book up fast so be sure to ask when making your reservations!

Cohutta Fishing Company

Is fly fishing on your agenda in north Georgia? If so, look no further than booking a trip with the exceptional staff at Cohutta Fishing Company in Blue Ridge. Cohutta has many years of experience and operates a first class fly shop and guide service. They offer casting classes, ½ day wade trips, full day wade trips, ½ , ¾ , and full day floats on the Toccoa River. All of their guides are very experienced, knowledgeable, and friendly. No experience needed to book!

(706) 946-3044

https://www.cohuttafishingco.com/

490 East Main St., Blue Ridge GA 30513

Lake & Stream Guide Service

If your family or group would like to spend a day or half day fishing the waters of Carters Lake which is conveniently located near the lodge. Lake and Stream Guide Service focuses on Striped Bass fishing as well as Walleye, and Spotted Bass fishing and primarily uses conventional spinning gear if fly fishing is not your thing no problem. Lake and Stream also fishes other area lakes such as Blue Ridge Lake, and Nottley Lake.

(706) 669-4973

https://ellijayfishing.com 

449 River St, Ellijay, GA 30540

Whitepath Golf Course

Five miles north of Ellijay, take a swing at Whitepath Golf Course to enjoy stunning rolling terrain and views of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountain and Cohutta Wilderness.

706-276-3080

https://www.golfwhitepath.com/

1156 Shenandoa Dr., Ellijay, GA 30540